[The importance of endothelium as a target for virus infection]

The review concerns the susceptibility of human endothelial cells to several viruses, especially CMV and HIV. Viral infections of endothelium in vivo develop usually in immuno-compromised transplant recipients and in patients with AIDS. Endothelium of noninfected persons presents endogenous, nonspecific immunity against viruses. The constitutive production of cytokines with antiviral activities such as IFN, TNF and IL-6, seems to be responsible for the immunity of endothelium. The consequence of viral infections of endothelium (especially CMV) may be potentiation of allograft rejection and also development of arteriosclerosis. In the article the possible mechanisms and contribution of viruses to the processes are discussed.